Pasugo Feb.2013 Vol.65 No.2 ''Anti-Dote for Despair'' - Copy

7/30/2019 Pasugo Feb.2013 Vol.65 No.2 ''Anti-Dote for Despair'' - Copy

1/44

PASUGOD'SMFSSAGEFEBRUARY 2013 VOLUME 65 NUMBER 2 ISSN 0116-1636

Page 1 of 44


2/44

PASUGOGOD'SMFSSAGEThe Magazine of the Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ)

PUBLISHERIgles ia Ni Cristo

EDITO R- I N-C HI EFRichard J. RodasMANAGING E DITORNicanor P. Tiosen

SEN IOR EDITORSMaximo M. Bularan II . Ren e J. Panoncillo

Greg F. 'onatoCO NTR IB UTING EDITORS

Lyndon A. Aguirre ' Robert F. PellienEDITORIAL ASSOC IATES

Roland A.Aguirre . Ma rlex C. CantorCe lerino G. Baclaan Dennis C. LovendinoPedrito B. Placio

WRITERSSiegfred T. Go llayan Marie F. Rui z

No rman A. ReyesGRAPHIC ARTISTS

Bienvenido A. Santiago Jr . Sam uel T. So lanoSylvia N. Dreo . Reg ina B. BurguillosPHOTOGRAPHER S

John Borg Glad y C. GaddiSamuel PDe Leon . Christian R. Barrera

GO D'S MESSAGE is published month ly by the Igles ia NiC risto with edito rial office at No. 1 Cent ral Ave nue, NewEra, Quezon City 1107 Phi lippines' Telepho ne: (632 ) 98 1-43 11 Fax: (632) 981-4333. Entered as second-class mailmatter at the Ce ntral Post Office in Mani la o n Feb ru ary 13,1979. Publi shed un der PCPM Cer tifica te of Reg istrat ionNo. Sp. 237. All manusc ripts and photographs submittedfor edit o rial co nsideration mu st be accom pa nied by a se lfaddressed envelope and return po stage. GOD'S MESSAGEassu m es no responsibility to the return of unso li cited ma ter ials. Co pyright 1986 by Igles ia Ni C risto.

HOW TO REACH USDo YO ll have ques tio ns, co mm ent s, or suggest ion s?Send you r letters wit h co mpl e te na me a nd address. to anyof the fo llowing editori al offices:

Philippines (Mo in Office): Iglesia Ni Cr isto Centra lOffice. No. I Ce n tra l Ave nu e. New Era. Quezon City11 07 Philippines. Fax: (632) 981-4333U.S.A. : 770 Airport Bou leva rd , Burli ngameCA 94010 USA. Fax: (650) 548- 1739Austrolio: #3 Ross St., Nor th Parramatta , NSW 215 1Aust ra lia. Fax: (612).9630-5058Northeost Asia: 2 Chome 14 -2. Kita-Magome Otak llTokyo l1 43-002 1 Japan. Telefax: (8 1-03) 6303-7874Europe: 79 Sta ines Road WestSunbuq'- on-T ham cs T W I6 7AH, Uni ted KingdomFax: (0044- 193 ) 275-5467

Or, e- mailllsa l:[email protected]. Send er 's nam e ma ybe withheld upon request. \I!,'e rese rve the right to ed it th eletters fo r reasons of space and clarity.

c E TSFEBRUARY 201 3 VO LUME 65 NUM BER 2

Features68

HOUSES OF WOR SHIP DEDICATIONAn unwavering commitment to praise GodPASTORAL VISITATION S IN NO RTH AMERICAThe joy of giving praises to Godfor His countless blessings (Last of Two Parts)

Art ic les

426333639

Finding hope amid hopelessnessby Roland A_Aguirre*$'jO::;CO)El3*~ 1)7Y,X.l)-!f""-A777?7 -

P ' J L l J ~ *Masiglang paglilingkod, mati bay na pag-asaby Lloyd I. Castro'There is hope for your future'by Erafio G. QuinitioLa vida del hombre: Aquf, ahara y despuestraducido por Arthur P. Agag

Depar tments1,31

32329

EDITORIALSMAILBOXCHURCH REPORTSAROUND THE GLOBECONVERTS

Our Cover: An ea rl ymo rn ing wo rship servicein Gibraltar, Baguio City.

Page 2 of 44


3/44

Antidote for despairMCH OF WHAT people see an d read aboutworld events today appear to be spiraling to wards even more violence, environmental di-

sasters, escalating wickedness and criminality-leading to feelings of fear, grief, an d despair.

The rapidly deteriorating economic condition exacerbates what is happening in almost every region ofthe world, thus, forcing individuals to the most desperate of actions. Suicide rates are soaring as governmentsslash public spending, cut wages, close public services,an d eliminate hundreds of thousands of jobs to copewith needed austerity measures, in effect, driving millions beyond the upper limits of their tolerance.

Daily streams of bulletin report protest movementsfueled by anger an d growing feelings of helplessness.People are demanding change as billions or more than athird of the world's population is lacking basic resources for survival, whereas, a relatively small number hasan abundance an d control of those same resources. Confronted by the enormity of the challenge society facestoday, despair or the absence of hope increasingly sinksin which is a debilitating emotion that, to others, can bea very deep abyss to dig one ou t of, especially withouthelp.

But there is help. God Almighty fully understandshow man feels, after all, He is the Maker an d Creatornot just of man bu t of the whole universe. Through HisSon, the Lord Jesus Christ, He teaches man the veryprime necessity of life, thus: "So do not worry, saying,'What shall we eat? Or 'What shall we drink? Or 'Whatshall we wear' For the pagan run after all these things,an d your heavenly Father knows that yo u need them.But seek first his kingdom and hi s righteousness, an dall these things will be given to you as well" (Matt. 6:31-33,New International Version, emphasis ours).

P eop le often exp ress ly say, " I t does no good toworry". But the reality of things is that people do worrytremendously: about the security of their job, the safetyof their children, their mortgage payment, other bills to

EDITORIAL

pay, food for their family, etc. As though to pour a doseof cold water on those who worry so much on these "pagan" concerns, the Savior declared: "your heavenly Father knows that you need them ... and al l these thingswill be given to you". God will provide- so anxious carean d worriment need not be expended on them i f you seekfirst his kingdom and His righteousness. Besides, worrycreates stress. Excessive stress can create a life of depression an d sadness.Ma n must se t his priorities straight then. The biblicalcommand "seek first" implies that it should be the firstthing to be attended to. Nothing should crowd this aside.No t food. No t what to wear or what to drink. But withmost zealous effort an d perseverance, man must press ontill he obtains God's kingdom and His righteousness. Hismind an d focus must no t be diverted from this divinesearch. Food and clothing are minor matters in comparison with them.

The "kingdom" that must be foremost of all in man'ssearch wa s given to the "flock", as the Lord Jesus ChristHimself assert: "Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give yo u the kingdom" (Luke12:32, Ibid.).

Those whom God has rescued from ou t of the darkness of this world ha d been brought to the "kingdom ofthe Son" wherein they have obtained redemption and theforgiveness of sins through the shed blood of the LordJesus Christ (Col. 1:12-14, Ibid.). The "flock" which wa sredeemed or purchased by Jesus with His own blood isthe Church Of Christ (Acts 20:28, Lamsa Translation).

All me n need the Church Of Christ then . This "kingdom of the Son" must not be pu t on the background inman's order of priorities in life. Remember, Jesus said"seek first".

Finding the "kingdom", or becoming a member ofthE> Chur rh Of Chri,:;t i,:; not thE> E>nd o f man', :; r e ,:;pon,:;ibility tough. He must also "seek" God's "righteousness".This righteousness was explained by Apostle Paul, thus:"1 am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power

FEBRUARY 2 0 1 3 ' GOD'S MESSAGE 1

Page 3 of 44


4/44

. -, -

.; . " ..., ' ~ ~ ~ . / ' 4 . . . . . ~ ~ - " . . - s _ ... ~ ~ . . . -.'

of God for the salvation of everyonewh o believes: first for the Jew, thenfor the Gentile. For in the gospel arighteousness from God is revealed,a righteousness that is by faith first tolast, just as it is written: 'The righteouswill live by faith'" (Rom. 1:16-17, NIV,emphaSiS ours).

The "righteousness" of God is thegospel. It is God's powerful way ofbringing all wh o believe it ultimatelyunto salvation to share in His "heavenly kingdom". But faith in the gospelmust be coupled with works or obedience Games 2:14, 17, 19, 24, Ibid.),otherwise, it is inoperative, dead andunproductive for salvation.

Apostle Paul bolstered the needfor man's obedience to God's righteousness or gospel when he enthusiastically pointed out such, thus: "Now,brothers, 1 want to rem ind you of thegospel 1 preached to you, which youreceived and on which you have taken your stand. By this gospel you aresaved, if you hold firmly to the word 1preached to you. Otherwise, you havebelieved in vain" (I Cor. 15:1-2, Ibid.).

The gospel which has beenpreached to man must be accepted,believed, held fast or kept firmly soas to fully benefit from God's promise that "all these things will be given toyou". That is, unless ma n never reallybelieves it in the first place.

God set the standard on ho w mancan receive His promised material andspiritual bleSSings in a very simpleway: obedience to Him. The problemis, many find obedience to God so difficult in a world so attractive and whichcalls on man with a loud, enticing voicefilled with all the delights it can offer.That is why Apostle Paul vividly asserted that it is hard to be a true Christianin these las t days, th u s : "You lnay .:lSwell know this too, Timothy, that in thelast days it is going to be very difficultto be a Christian. For people will love2 FEBRUARY 2013 ' G OD'S MESSAGE

God set the standard on how mancan receive His promised material andspiritual blessings in a very simple way:

obedience to Him.only themselves an d their money; theywill be proud and boastful, sneering atGod, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful to them, and thoroughJy bad.They will be hardheaded and nevergive in to others; they will be constantliars and troublemakers an d will thinknothing of immorality. They will berough and cruel, and sneer at thosewh o try to be good. They will betraytheir friends; they will be hotheaded,puffed up with pride, and prefer goodtimes to worshiping God. They will goto church, yes, bu t they won't reallybelieve anything they hear. Don't betaken in by people like that" (II Tim.3:1-5, Living Bible).

How true are these things today?According to a report released lastOctober 9, 2012 by the Pew ResearchCenter's Forum on Religion and Public Life, more people are atheist, agnostic, or unaffiliated with religionthan ever before. In fact, a third ofadults under 30 have no religiOUS affiliation (32 %).

Compound that spiritual crisiswith those wh o are self-centered an dlovers of money, or, in the words ofth e apostle "will love only themselvesand their money." Add up those wh oare loose in morals an d conduct,puffed up with pride, an d "prefagood times to worshiping God." Thesheer nurnber of religions, ch u rches,an d pseudo-religious organizationstoday is deceptive an d misleading,for, Apostle Paul declared: "They

will go to church, yes, but they won't re ally believe anything they hear."

No doubt, God decreed that allungodly men will perish togetherwith th is earth an d everything in iton Judgment Day (II Pet. 3:7, 10). Onthat Day, even mighty an d strongmen will cry bitterly. Those who engross themselves with accumulatin g "silver and gold" (money) on thisearth will find lamentably that theirwealth cannot deliver them fromGod's wrath (Zeph. 1:14-15, 17-18).

What makes faithful membershipin the Church Of Christ doubly important? First, members of the Church OfChrist were redeemed by the cleansing blood of Jesus, and as such, will besaved on Judgment Day. Second, evenin this life, they are enjOined to askGod in prayers with thanksgiving forwhat they need, because the promiseis: "Don't worry about anything, but inall your prayers ask God for what youneed, always asking him with a thankful heart ... An d with all his abundantwealth through Christ Jesus, my Godwill supply all your needs" (Phil. 4:6,19, Today's English Version) .

God promised to liberally supply every need of His people from Hisriches. The material worries and everyday concerns of man can be alleviated.He must not allow himself to be immobilized an d be numbed by the feelingof despair an d powerlessness. Thereis a biblical antidote to it. He must begin taking steps towards positive ac-

Page 4 of 44


5/44

tion: search for God's kingdomor the Church Of Christ. Therein,complete obedience to God'srighteousness or gospel must belearned even through disciplineand punishment from God (Heb.12 :5-10) .

Man may have been accustomed to many promises madeand broken by his fellowmen.But with God it is different. Hispromises to His people stand. Atthe end of their perilous journeyon earth, the obedient and faithfulmembers of the Church Of Christawait "a new heaven and a newearth" where God "will wipe awayall tears from their eyes. There will beno more death, no more grief or cry-ing or pain" (Rev. 21:1-4, TEV). Allof that will be gone forever. 0- RICHARD J. RODAS

Editor-in-Chief

Editor's Note:We are glad to inform our readers

that starting with the March2013 issue, the Pasugo: God's

Message magazine will add eightadditional pages, from 40 insidepages to 48. This will enable usto give you up-to-date and more

comprehensive coverage of all themajor Church activities, whileretaining the regular sections,

such as "In Focus," "Converts,""Inspiring Lives," "Mailbox,"

among others. Religious articles infive languages-Filipino, English,Spanish, German, and Japanese-

will also be regularly featured.

MAILBOX

Should the Sabbath be observed today?GOOD DAY TO you! I just want to inquireregarding your religion. It is written inDeuteronomy 5:12-15 that God sanctified theday of Sabbath. Thus, it is only righteous thatworship to God should be performed in theday of Sabbath. Why is it that in your religionyou do not observe Sabbath and you even haveworship service done on Thursday?Cha Benjamincha_benjamin125 @ya hoo.comEditor's reply:We express our appreciation for yo ur interestrega rding the Church Of Ch rist and we hopethat yo u will continue your search for the truth.Regarding yo ur question, it's true that the Israel iteswere commanded to observe the day of theSabbath (Deut. 5: 12-15 ). Our Lord God gave thiscommandment to His servant Moses: "There aresix days when you may work, but the seventhday is a Sabbath of rest, a day of sacred assembly.You are not to do any work; wherever you live,it is a Sabbath to the LORD" (Lev. 23:3, NewInternational Version ). Those who did not observethis at that time were punished (N um. 15:32-35, Ibid. ). Thus, during the time of Moses, thiscommandment of God was ca refully observed.

But time came when the observance ofthe Sabbath beca me meaningless to our LordGod. The Prophet Isaiah clarify this in his writings, "Stop bringing mea ningless offerings! Yourince nse is detes table to me. New Moons, Sab-baths and convocations--I cannot bear yourevil assemblies" (lsa. 1 1 3, Ibid.).

It is made clear to us that the Israelites' observance of the Sabbath became meaninglessbefore God and thus, should be stopped (Hos.2:1 1). Eve n our Lord Jesus Christ did not observe the day of rest as what is written in Luk e13:14-16: "Indignant because Jesus had healedon the Sabbath, the synagogue ruler said to thepeople; 'there are six days for work. So comeand be healed on those days, not on the Sab-bath: Th e Lord answered him, 'You hypocrites!Doesn't each of you on the Sabbath untie his oxor donkey from the sta ll and lead it out to give itwate r? Then should not this woman, a daughterof Abraham, whom Satan has kept bound for

eighteen long years, be set free on the Sabbathday from what bound her?" (N IV) .

In this light, let us understand that in theChristian Era, the observance of the Sabbathas decreed in the law of Moses is no longercommanded to be practised. Furthermore, itis clarified by the Bible that people will notbe justified by the Law of Moses (Acts 13:39).

But man's obligation to serve and worshipGod never ceases because this is his primaryduty to his Creator (Ps. 100:2-3). Even during thetime of the apostles, th e Christians continued togather together to fulfill this sacred commandment: "Now on the first day of the week, whenthe disciples came together to break bread, Paul,ready to depart the next day, spoke to themand continued his message until midnight"(Acts 20:7, New King james Version). It must benoted that in this verse, the day the first-centuryChurch Of Christ performed their congregational worship service was on "Th e first day ofthe week" or Sunday. For this same reaso n th eIglesia Ni Cristo holds worship services duringSundays. How about other days? Is it forbidden by God to hold worship services on otherdays? Again, the Acts of the Apostles 2:46 statesth at: "Th ey followed a daily discipline of worship in the Temple followed by meals at home,every meal a celebration, exuberant and joyful" (Message). We must realize that there waseven a time when the early Christians held theircongregational services daily. This is why theIgleSia Ni Cristo holds worship services duringThursdays or Wednesdays and Sundays or Saturdays. Whatever the day or time, whenever theworship service comes, whatever the hindrancemay be, Church Of Christ members give utmostimportance to worshiping God because it is acommandment that His true servants alwaysfulfill.

For questions, comments, and suggestions,send your letters to any of our editorial offices(see staff box, p.l). Or, e-mail us at pasugo @inc.org.phWe reserve the right to edit letters for reasonsof space and clarity. Sender's name may bewithheld upon request.

Page 5 of 44


6/44

Is there still hope for mankindamid the cycle of hopelessnessmany find themselves in?

Two THOUSAND AND thirteen has juststarted and yet, many are feeling downrighthopeless . It seems that th e ne w year, in spiteof the initial eup ho ria, cannot bid goodbye to theproblems and frustrations of the past year, castinga feelin g of pessimism and cynicism upon many.

Indeed, st ill loo ming in the horizon are man'senormous problems: unending wars, soaring foodan d fuel prices, debilitating diseases, calamit iesan d di sasters that are displacing populations an dth r c a tcn ing govcl 'nn ,cn t s .

Thi s makes us wonder-and ask ourselves:Ho w can we aspire for a bright future in thedrumbea t of impending bad news? How should

4 FEBR UA RY 20 1 3 ' GOD' S ME SSAGE

we react when confronted w ith gloom and doomscenarios? Is there still h op e for mankind amid thecycle of hopelessness man y find themse lves in?Dark and uncertai futureIf what we h op e for is a kinder, gent ler world,then we w ill be utterly di sa pp oint ed . Our LordGod, through the prophet Ezekiel, foretold whatwould take place in th ese last da ys : "This is wha tthe Sovereign LORD is saying: 'One di saster af terano lher i" cu rning un yu u . I l ' ~ dl l uver. Th is isthe end. You are finished . The end is coming foryo u people w ho live in the land' .. ." (Ezek. 7:5-7,Today's English Vers ion ).

Page 6 of 44


7/44

Also, the prophet Isaiahmentioned of the devastation an ddestruction that would be wroughtby evil people: "Their feet run to evil,And they make haste to shed innocentblood; Their thoughts are thoughtsof iniquity; Wasting and destructionare in their paths. The way" of peacethey have not known, An d there is nojustice in their ways" (Isa. 59:7-8, NewKing James Version).

No wonder, most of media's stapleissues an d ' topics today are enoughto make one cringe in hopelessnessand fear. Screaming headlines tellominously of impending threats tomankind- te r ror attacks, recessions,pandemics, environmental disasters,among others.

Moreover, nothing in this world iscertain: fame, power and possessionsare ephemeral. Man himself has beenappOinted by God to die- in fact, hefaces death everyday (I Cor. 15:31)and afterward judgment (Heb. 9:27).Even this world in which we live willno t exist forever (II Pet. 3:7, 10); it isbound to perish and be discarded (Ps.102:25-26) .Man's living hopeInasmuch as life on earth is bleak andthe future is grim, what then remainsas man's only hope?

Apostle Peter reminds us ofour living hope that includes an

"inheritance which is imperishable,undefiled, an d unfading .. . " (I Pet.1:3-5, Revised Standard Version) whichwe will receive in the new heavensand a new earth (II Pet. 3:13).

Unlike this wo rld we live in, in theHoly City we will never experiencetribulation; it is a perfect place: thus,there will be no more sorrow or crying,death, thirst, and hunger (Rev. 21:1-4).

However, not just anyone cantruly hope to gain entrance to theHoly City. Apos t le Pau l m.ade n,ent ionof those who are in Christ who are

"heirs according to the promise" andthus can hope to receive the eternal

Nothing in this world is certain:fame, power andpossessions are ephemeral ...Even this world in which we live will not exist forever.

reward (Gal. 3:29). They have becomeheirs of God's promise, because ou rLord Jesus Christ created one newman from two- Christ and those whoare in Him (Gal. 3:16; Eph. 2:15). Thecomposition of the one new man isChrist as the head an d the Church as .the body (Col. 1:18).

To become an heir, man mustbecome one with Christ throughHis body which is the Church OfChrist (Col. 1:18; Acts 20:28, LamsaTranslation). The Church Of Christ is,indeed, indispensable because onlythrough it can man become one withChrist.

Thus, joining the Church OfChrist an d remaining obedient toGod's commands until the end is ofutmost importance in order to enterthe Holy City and receive eternal life.Source of all hope and blessingsOn the part of God's faithful servants,He is their unfailing source ofhope; thus, they will never give upentrusting their lives to God: "Evenif a whole army surrounds, me, I willno t be afraid; even i f enemies attackme, I will still trust God. I have askedthe LORD for one thing; one thing onlydo I want: to live in the LORD's houseall my life, to marvel there at hisgoodness, and to ask for his guidance.In times of trouble he will shelter me;he will keep me safe in his Templeand make me secure on a high rock"(Ps. 27:3-5, TEV).

No matter what the future holds,they find hope and comfort in God'sblessings and promises: "God says,' I 'Will s ave t ho se 'Who love m e an dwill protect those who acknowledgeme as LORD. When they call to me, Iwill answer them; when they are in

trouble, I will be with them. I willrescue them ... I will reward themwith long life; I will save them'" (Ps.91:14-16, Ibid.).

Most of all, the hope membersof the Church Of Christ await is. thaton the day of Judgment they will beglorious like our Lord Jesus Christ (Phil.3:20-21) and will receive salvation andeternal life in the Holy City.

This hope of the members ofthe Church Of Christ will never failbecause it is anchored on the promiseof God (Heb. 6:19, 18). Thus they areinstructed to hold fast because Hewho promised is faithful- He will notbreak His promise (Heb. 10:23); Hedoes no t lie (Num. 23:19); and He cando everything (Luke 1:37).Rekindling their hopeGiven the negative expectationsand widespread pessimism aroundthem, God's people should keeptheir eyes focused and fixed on thepromised eternal city and eternal life.In addition, the apostles remind themto fight the good fight of faith so thatthe world will no t be able to take awaytheir hope for salvation (I Tim. 6:12).

Whether various adversitiesor troubles are forthcoming or not,they should no t give in to the luresand temptations of this evil world:instead, they should strive to obeyGod's commandments (I Tim. 4:10) .Obedience to His words- attendingthe worship service, sharing theirfaith to others, loving the brotherhood,among others-is a testament to theirhope in God.

I n d e ed , they "hou ld no t le t the i rhope wane or diminish even in the

Turn to page 22

FEBRUARY 20]3' GOD'S MESSAGE 5

Page 7 of 44


8/44

1TUAOCAGAYAN SOUTHLocated about 60 kilometers away from thedistrict office in Tuguegarao City, the 200 seatingcapacity worship building was dedicated to theLord God on November 17 , 2012 In a worsnlpservice led by Brother Mamerto Gabriel, districtminister.

2TACULINGNEGROS OCCIDENTALWith a seating capacity of 500, the worship buildingwas dedicated to the Lord God in a worship serviceofficiated by the district minister, Brother Guillermocaorera Jr., on NovemOer 23,2012.

Photos by Nicanor Nato and Chester Tuazon of INC Engineering & Construction Department

Page 8 of 44


9/44

3REAlQUEZON NORTHOn December 7, 2012, Brother Bienvenido C.Santiago officiated a worship service to dedicateto the Almighty God the recently constructedworship building , which could accomm odate650 worshipers.

4SAN JOSECOTABATO SOUTHEASTA worship service was held on December 14 ,2012, led by Brother Allan Quiambao, districtminister, to dedicate to the Almighty God therecently com pleted worship building that couldseat 300 congregants.

Written by Alejandro R. Sino Cruz, Jr. wit h ass istance Irom Markle l T. Serreno, Eduard Angelo V. San Pedro, and Erine Jeruh V. San Pedro

Page 9 of 44


10/44

E JOY OF GIVING .ISES TO GOD ICOUNTLESS BLESSINGS

rticles on the December 2012 - January 2013in North America by the Executive Minister

Page 10 of 44

P 11 f 44


11/44

A NYONE DRIVING ALONG the corner ofGrove and Van Ness Streets in downtown SanFrancisco couldn't help bu t notice the big lineof people forming in front of the Bill Graham CivicAuditorium, a venue known for rock concerts and thelike. Nearby coffee shop owners and parking garageattendants were all wondering, "What's going ontoday? It's only 8 a.m. and it's a Thursday."

John Toomey from Santa Rosa was one of thosepeople in line and he knew the Bill Graham CivicAuditorium all too well. "I worked in this building;I've probably done 100 concerts in this building aloneas well as other places in San Francisco. Rock concertsare pretty, you know what 1 mean; they're superficial.This is a whole new level; rock concerts don't meanmuch at all compared to this, you know ... this is thereal thing."

Page 11 of 44

P 12 f 44


12/44

Page 12 of 44

Page 13 of 44


13/44

John is a member of the Iglesia Ni Cristo. Today, he's nothere to work, bu t rather to attend a worship service to be ledby the Executive Minister, Brother Eduardo V. Manalo, alongwith nearly 6,000 members from allover Northern California.

The presence of the Iglesia Ni Cristo could be felt allaround the vicinity. Church flags stood tall, waving in thecold San Francisco air, while Centennial logos topped thelight posts all around the area. For Sister Shaina Averyfrom Mountain View, seeing these symbols gave such prideand unity among members as they walked towards thevenue. "The flags that are out on the streets-the brethreneverywhere like on every corner-every street you go to yo usee someone you recognize. It's really cool."

"I can't think of a better wa y to start the ne w year thanwith a special worship service officiated by our brother,"said Brother Tim Beery from Hayward. "For him to takethe time to travel around the world like he does which is atremendous sacrifice ... and to do the service which he does,is incredible, just incredible," added Brother Tim.

Thousands of members here in San Francisco came tobe enriched by the words of God bu t so are the thousandsmore waiting in the 25 different sites around the world whoalso took part in this worship service via satellite. "I t was anamazing feeling that brethren around the world, differenttimes zones, are experiencing the very same event," BrotherTim Beery exclaimed.

In his homily, Brother Eduardo emphasized on theimportance of being a true Christian. "What we should bearin mind is that our Lord Jesus Christ did not sin. Our Lord JesusChrist did not live in sin. Our Lord Jesus Christ lived righteously.His way of life was blameless. Hence , a true Christian should alsolead a righteous way of life. Leading a new life is, indeed, highlyimportant. If we are striving to be strong in the faith and remainsteadfast in our membership in the Church Of Christ, we also needto be found in the kind of life sought by God for us to be trulyedified," the Executive Minister exhorted the faithful.

For Sister Anna Himebaugh, the message came throughloud and clear. "Brother Eduardo brought forth the messageof love and edification for the Christians. That we aren't justhere by accident; that we were called, and we need to realizethat. As Christians, we need to be serious about it, checkourselves, and get our act together before it is too late."

"And it's a constant work in progress. We should neverreally be satisfied with any progress that we've made so far.It's always working to the next level pretty much. We shouldalways rely on God because our life is pretty much in Hishands. And as much as we can pu t hard work, studying,working hard at our jobs, it's not really going to do us justiceif we are without God like what Brother Eduardo mentionedin his sermon. So, we really need to pray for His guidanceand for Him to always be by our side," said Brother ElbertParco.Brother Eduardo taught about the importance of not justbeing a Christian by name but living free from sin. "If wetruly desire to be blessed by God , if we want to remain in His love

and to preserve our election, our manner of ife should be like thatof our Lord Jesus Christ. We should never yield to sin especiallyin these times. "

"Not a lot of people know ho w to be a true Christian,they think they are, bu t they are in the wrong church an d getthe wrong message. Being here, yo u get the right message,yo u can feel it. If you understand them, follow them, it doesthings for you, makes things happen in your life," saidBrother Robert Speller.

Many families came together to witness this event asBrother Eduardo addressed the issues and tough decisionsthat young people face today. "So, we are appealing to allour youth: let us wisely choose our friends. We should not allowourselves to be swayed into doing evil . Rather, we should be theones to lead them toward the righteous path in order for all of usto be assured of he promised salvation come the day of Judgment. "

For Brother William Jacy, the message for the youthstrengthened him even more, letting him know that beinga true Christian is really about making the right choices."Being a kid in high school yo u learn a bunch of temptationsou t there whether it be alcohol an d drugs. I don't know howmany times I've ha d some of my nonmember friends say,'Hey Willy, let's go drink something after schooV an d I'd belike, 'No, that would be bad for me and that would be ba dfor my offices and that just looks bad, and I can't afford todo that sin behind everyone's back and just live with that.I wouldn't be able to do it.' That's what we all strive to beas a true Christian. So, that involves renewing ourselves,changing our ways, making sure that we walk on the paththat God wants us to walk on."

Sister Rana Domondo came with her children andgrandchildren. Brother Eduardo's message for the youngergeneration is exactly what her family needed to hear. "Ihope, I'm doing everything, really we are doing everythingwe can to let our family know, even our little children. Wetalk to them about God. All my children, my grandchildren,are all in the choir. Even the little six-year-old, right there.She's already practicing to sing. And everybody knows inour family, we teach them to be in the Church and hangin there, and never go away. And we try to teach them thesame-that we believe that God is first, 'cause without Godyo u don't know what's going to happen to you . God is hope.An d if you don't have hope, there's no use living."

After the worship service, Brother Eduardo and his wife,Sister Lynn, inaugurated the Felix Y. Manalo FoundationBuilding in downtown San Francisco. It will be the main hu bof the foundation's many ongoing charitable projects in thePhilippines and abroad.

In today's worship service, the definition of wh atit means to be a true Christian has been reinforced andingrained in the hearts and minds uf all w ho a l lended. Theygo back ou t into the world knowing full well who they areas members of the Iglesia Ni Cristo, and who they should bein the eyes of the world, bu t more importantly, in the eyesof God . ~

Page 13 of 44

Page 14 of 44


14/44

T HE WORSHIP SERVICE has ended. The ExecutiveMinister, Brother Eduardo V. Manalo, and his familyhave al ready left the chapel grounds. But the excitementlingered. Brethren rushed along the side walk, some cut straightthrough the snow; taking pictures, capturing memories, andsharing their favorite moments of the pastoral visit. But if onemust take just one memory from this day, may it be this: theodds were against the brethren here in Salt Lake City, Utah;according to statistics, this day should not have been, bu t whenthe odds are against God's people, His love always wins.

Tn a county whe re R7.5 p e rcent of the res idents identifythemselves as Mormon (http://www.city-data.com/). in alandscape dominated by Mormon temples, in a city whereeven the street signs lead you in the direction of the Mormonheadquarters, the members of the Iglesia Ni Cristo travelagainst the flow of the majority. They travel in the direction

where God's words take them. Against the odds, they'vegrown from a handful of brethren to a thriving congregationwith their very ow n house of worship. This chapel stands asthe first Iglesia Ni Cristo house of worship in the state of Utah.An d the brethren here have made a decision: this house ofGod will be loved.

"We are very fortunate," said Brother Fred Lacson,"indeed, very blessed that we have this magnificent house ofworship an d we are very thankful to ou r Almighty God." Tearafter grateful tear fell even before the worship service began.The organis t played hynu . preludes as the brellu'en sal i.n ll"lesanctuary fervently praying. When the worship service didbegin, the brethren's tears turned to pools of relief that thisday ha d finally come. "It's like you know the feeling wheneverything is on your shoulders ," said Sister Linda Santos, "andthen for an hour nothing was there. It was overwhelming."

Page 14 of 44

Page 15 of 44


15/44

During the worship service, Brother Eduardo Manaloreminded the brethren what they should do when theirshoulders are heavy-laden with problems. He reminded thecongregation of the struggles in the life of Joseph, the sonof Jacob. I f anyone had problems, it wa s h im- everythingseemed to go wrong for Joseph. His brothers being jealousof him, sold him into slavery and as a slave, he wa s falselyaccused and then imprisoned. Despite the bleakness ofhis situation, Joseph still clung to God . In the end he wasappointed to take charge of the whole nation of Egypt,second in command only to the Pharaoh, and in the processsaved his family and the entire country from starvation.Joseph's enemies intended to hurt him and i t would havebeen easy for Joseph to see the trials he faced as a reasonto lose trust in God. But he realized that God allowed thesethings to happen for the good.

As the world is now plummeting in a downwardspiral towards its demise, a misstep in decision making iscommonplace today for man. However, for us to turn to afaulty way of alleviating ou r problems shouldn't be the case.Like Joseph, we have a God Whom we can turn to, Who caresfor us, as the apostles explained: "Casting the whole of yourcare [all your anxieties, all your worries, all your concerns,once an d for all] on Him, for He cares for yo u affectionatelyand cares about you watchfully" (I Pet. 4:7, Amplified Bible). Sowhen life seems darkest, when we're surrounded on all sidesby problems, and when the odds don't favor us, we knowthe decision to make. "You should tell yourselves," said BrotherEduardo, "] will never turn my back on God."

Having heard this biblical truth, the members of theChurch Of Christ in Utah have made a firm decision: no matterwhat path the majority travels, they will follow the LORD.

Page 15 of 44

Page 16 of 44


16/44

FLASHING LIGHTS, GLITZ, and glam. These arebu t a few words to describe the extravagance of LasVegas, Nevada. Renowned for its famous casinos andlavish hotels, the "Live Entertainment Capital of the World"thrives on vices such as gambling, drinking, and adultentertainment. With its dramatic scenery and wide range ofmerrymaking pleasures, it entices tourists from all over theworld, a place best known for its slogan, "What happens inVegas stays in Vegas." Yet even at the heart of what is dubbedas "Sin City," the true Christians emerged triumphantly witha bright new house of worship and fervent faith that couldoutshine any spectacle on the Las Vegas Strip.On Wednesday, January 9, 2013, as tourists an d nativeNevadans lined up for various shows and attractions,brethren from the district of Southern California lined upfor an event of far more spiritual significance-the house ofworship dedication of Las Vegas local congregation. Afterthe opening prayer led by Brother Robert F. Pellien, district

minister of Southern California, the homily began. BrotherEduardo V. Manalo, Executive Minister of the Church OfChrist, delivered the message of God, emphasizing that Godset us apart from the rest of mankind for Christ (John 17:6,14). It was further explained how it is not for the true servantsof God to conform to the ways of society that have defiledthe earth which brought forth imminent destruction uponhumanity (Isa. 24:5-6, 19-20; Lev. 20:23). Rather, it is expectedof us to deny ungodliness and worldly lusts for a path ofrighteousness, diSCipline, and sobriety (Titus 2:12-14).

The Executive Minister concluded the lesson bydescribing the blessings laid in store for those wh o obey, asPsalm 36:10 was read, thus: "Continue to love those whoknow You and to do good to those who are righteous." Thecongregation then expressed their thanks to God in a closingprayer led by Brother Mathusalem V. Pareja.

After the uplifting worship service, Brother Eduardoproceeded to the overflow tent to watch a special program

Page 16 of 44

Page 17 of 44


17/44

prepared by the youth members an d production crewof Southern California. They performed an originalINC musical entitled "You're Invited." In this activityconceptualized by the Executive Minister himself, creativearts such as music, dance, and theater are used not only toenhance the spiritual lives of members bu t also to propagateGod's message. Through this platform, brethren are able touse their God-given talents for the spreading of the Gospel."You're Invited!" made its first US debut just a few monthsearlier in Irvine, California at Resonate, during an evangelicalmission with over 7,000 attendees.

On stage was a picturesque array of young performersw-ho exemplified being lights of this world. With fiery eyesand hearts ablaze, the cast performed with enthusiasm andclosed the theatrical set with a song about the Lord JesusChrist Who established the one true Church. The sound ofmusic and soulful singing resounded as performers movedto original hip-hop beats and intricate choreography.

The short program concluded with a special song called"Let's Keep Growing Stronger In Our Faith", w-ruch reflectsthe Church's campaign for this year-intensive edification.A wave of excitement an d emotion took over as BrotherEduardo stood up for a picture-taking with the cast andcrew. Followed by more smiles and tears of joy, brethrenof all ages swarmed to greet and shake hands with theExecutive Minister.

Powerful, indeed, and unforgettable wa s the presence ofthe Lord God experienced at the Las Vegas house of worshipdedication. He did not disappoint His people in their effortsand devotional prayers for their newly dedicated houseof worship. The loving care and guidance of the ChurchAdministration enveloped the gathered Church Of Christmembers, leaving them with a flame of faith that burns sobright-not even the lustrous city lights of Las Vegas couldmatch its radiance

Page 17 of 44

Page 18 of 44


18/44

A T A TIME when the doors of many churches are clos-ing-both literally and figuratively-the story is quitedifferent for the members of the Church Of Christ. Sis-ter Aimee Macahillas, whose family moved residence 30 timesin her childhood, knows just how important it is to have a placeto call home. "Every time I walk into a chapel, that's home. Themoment I open those doors and 1see a friendly face, I'm home.And that to me is very comforting." Here in Portland, Oregon,brethren have a place to find refuge--a place to pray an d a placewhere they can find comfort-in their new house of worship.

Many carne early to witness the dedication of this houseof worship led by the Executive Minister, Brother EduardoV. Manalo. Before the start of the worship service, the crowdoutside continued to grow. Brother Richard Carr said, "Where

do you see lines of brethren standing outside a chapel wait-ing to get inside?" Brethren stood in line because of their lovefor God and their thirst to hear God's words preached by theExecutive Minister. "Every time our Brother is here dedicat-ing chapels, it's always a great blessing. It's very spiritual andthat's something that we should always look forward to," saidTherone Cleveland who trave led from Seattle, Washington.

Not a single empty chair could be found. The sanctuaryand overf!o"" rOOTllS ""prp cOTllpletely filled ""ith brethren andeven guests. John Mohler, who furnished this house of wor-ship with new pews, attended this special gathering and wasvery thankful, "I just appreciate that God's work is spokenand upheld. 1 just heard God's word proclaimed and that'swhat I appreciate."

g

Page 19 of 44


19/44

During the sermon, Brother Eduardo reminded all themembers that 'when we put our trust in God, He'll help usthrough any trial that we may face. It's during these tests thatwe should draw closer to God to help us through any obstacle.It's wi thin these walls of the house of worship where we re-ceive His blessings. "Why is it so important for us to be zea lousin our services to God? " the Executive Minister asked. "Why isit highly imperative that we perform all our religious obligationsand obey all the commandments of our Lord God? What we haveread describes wha t shall transpire on the Judgment Day, concern-ing the people who will be blessed on that day . And who are they thatshall be blessed? God 's chosen servants who will 'remain firm to theend' ... God's servants who shall keep their faith .. . God's servants

The joy that brethren felt this day was contagious . Broth-er Elbert Rillera, a choir member from Portland said, " It feelswonderful. Definitely uplifted as far as my faith goes and defi-nitely strengthened." With a smile on his face Brother Josh-ua said, "I felt so blessed today that our Executive Ministerwas able to come out and dedicate this chapel to God and Iwouldn't have missed it for the world. It's truly an honor tohave been able to attend such an event." And as for SisterAimee, her feeling of joy will surely last a lifetime, "Today, Ifelt so happy to be part of something so amazing." This houseof worship stands tall in this quiet Portland neighborhood. Itstands as a symbol of hope and a symbol of inspiration for themembers of the Church Of Christ. 0

g

Page 20 of 44


20/44

I N A QUIET rural town of Bremerton, Washington, nothing eventful seems to take place. Residents go to and frowith their daily routines- school, work, an d the occasional side trips to the stores. The only bustle that breaks the silence of this city is the hourly whistling of the horn emanatingfrom the ferry terminal. Other than that, everything remainsthe same. So it wouldn' t come as a surprise when nearby residents began taking interests upon finding out that the ChurchOf Christ had bought a former Methodist chapel on the eastside of the city.

It ha d been almost over 26 years since the local congregation of Bremerton was established in the Emerald State. Backthen, the members ha d to drive for a total of three hours to andfrom Seattle to attend worship services. Through the tumultuous rain, black ice on the roads, and harsh snowstorms, thebrethren endured them all in order to serve God. Then in 1988,their prayers were answered, as they were able to acquire theirvery own chapel in the heart of their hometown of Bremerton.

No longer did the brethren need to navigate their waythrough perilous roads to reach the worship services. With thegift that had been given to them, they were able to stand as alocal congregation and host their ow n Church activities suchas evangelical missions an d different works of edification. Although they were just starting out with only eight families,they strived and worked hard. With God's help, they wereable to increase in number in a short amount of time.

Despite the still struggling economy, members of Bremerton did not waver in their faith. As other churches aroundthem began to shut their doors du e to lack of support andfunding, the Iglesia Ni Cristo was going full force in their manymissionary endeavors and other events such as neighborhoodclean-ups an d INC Giving. It was during one of these eventsbeing held in their chapel that a realization struck them- theyha d outgrown their place of worship. No longer could they allfit as a congregation in the edifice that they ha d held dearly forso many years. I t was time to move on.

Page 21 of 44


21/44

Maybe it was everyone's tenacity or perhaps it was theturn of the tide, but one thing's for sure-God was listening totheir prayers. On August 22, 2012, the Church Administrationpurchased a property that was owned by St. Luke's MethodistChurch. Nestled on top of the hill, the newly acquired 19, 792square foot edifice had a sweeping view of the Olympic Mountains. The house of worship sits on a 3.59 acre land. In additionto that, a 3,290 square foot parsonage was also included.

With a glint of tears in his eyes, Brother Leon Guadizcould not contain his jubilation. "The brethren are so excited.Finally, we have a place big enough to help us with all of ou rChurch functions. We don't have to have some brethren standoutside in the cold anymore, because we can't all fit inside."Tests came an d pushed everyone to their limit, bu t thebrethren pursued on. Renovation wa s to be completed withinthree months. In addition, winter season was setting in wheretemperature could easily drop below twenty degrees. " It willtake a miracle to finish this, bu t we will do ou r best," saidBrother Mike Robinson, the contractor. And with every single

member praying for the success of the renovation, a miracledid happen in Bremerton.

On January 17, 2013, the immense power of God wasmanifested in this humble local congregation of Bremerton.As the Executive Minister, Brother Eduardo V. Manalo delivered his homily and prayed for the sake of the brethren,tears of joy poured from their eyes. Memories of all the colddays an d long nights of unending trials and tests seem to dissipate into thin air. Even though the dedication took place ona Thursday morning, brethren forego the routine that seemto envelop this tiny town to witness a blessing and a miracle.

Truly, God was there in that place that day- watchingover His children, for no amount of human will could havemade that happen. And as the day came to a close, the members of the Bremerton Congregation knew that memories offaithful service to God would ha ve to be made in their newhouse of worship. Thus, another chapter begins as they settheir eyes on the future with the Almighty God still at theirside. 9

Page 22 of 44


22/44

IT WAS ONLY 7 a.m. at the Ramada Conference Center inEdmonton, Alberta and the lobby was buzzing with excitement. They stood in a line that wrapped around the

hotel lobby, bu t no t a soul wa s complaining. In fact, they wereall blushing with anticipation because at the en d of the linewaited a spiritually-uplifting experience.

When the doors to the worship service venue finallyopened, brethren flooded in and filled all 1,000 seats whilemany more lined the walls. It was standing room only. Theyquietly meditated to unclog their mind from distractions.And like freezing cold hands to a fire, the brethren wrapthemselves in the warmth of today's lesson in a worship service led by Brother Eduardo V. Manalo.

"We're always afraid of misfortunes and trials that comein our life bu t as long as we believe in God, and follow Hiscommandments, He will be with us, an d He will always protect us," said Brother Aldwin De Guzman. And parents like

Brother Jesse Esperame knew this worship service ha d greatlybenefitted his teenage son. "It's a good thing for kids to hearbecause they learned a lot about how to stay on the right path."

Before meeting the Executive Minister, brethren did aheadcount to make sure their family stood in line together.The children's eagerness leaked through their faces as theyfanned ou t their heads and got a glimpse of their spiritualleader. A leader they love so deeply, an d a leader wh o lovesthem back even more.

In his homily, the Executive Minister reminded the faithful that God expects us, His servants from ends of the earth to"look to [Him], and be saved" (Isa. 45:22). This means placingour hope in Him as God is a refuge to those who trust in Him(Ps. 141:8; Nah. 1:7). But for them to avail of these bleSSings,Brother Eduardo emphasized, God's people need to be righteous an d never get tired of obeying Him (Ps. 55:22; II Kings18 :5-7) .

Page 23 of 44


23/44

"When the news broke that Brother Eduardo will be coming to Edmonton, I knew I had to beg the Lord God to inspireBrother Eduardo for a meet-and-greet session after the service- giving my family a small chance to meet him," recalledBrother Genn Marc. His prayers were answered. His son,Liam got more than a handshake. "Liam raised his hands towards Brother Eduardo an d Brother Eduardo picked him up.I was really shocked when it happened. Next thing I knowhe wouldn't go back to me, I called out two to three timeswhile gently tugging him off. He looked at me an d placed hishead on Brother Eduardo's shoulders," Brother Genn Marcrecounted, a little embarrassed bu t feeling even more blessedthan ever.

The air was thick with affection. Music swept throughthe room as the kids sang a Christian song for the ExecutiveMinister. Some were too young to read their lyrics bu t it didnot matter because they sang with all of their hearts. "Whenyou sing for someone really special, you feel that it's different,because you do your best more," said Sister Jewell Ocomenwho was part of the children's choral group.Alth()ugh it had only been a couple of weeks into the Ne wYear, the brethren have already marked it as their favorite day.The children will remember Brother Eduardo's genuine smileand tuck that memory neatly in their hearts. Parents willlook back on this day and recall Brother Eduardo's words ofwisdom. They will remember to trust in God when they are on

their knees struggling to find a solution. They will rememberGod is just a prayer away when fear keeps them up at night.They will keep the words of God close to thei r soul when theirhearts are broken. They will remember God's love impartedto them through the Executive Minister because it is the kindof love that will keep them moving onward to salvation. ~

Page 24 of 44


24/44

Finding hope ... from page 5

For the faithful servants, God is their unfailingsource ofhope; they find hope andcomfort in Gods blessings andpromises.

ru n and no t beweary, Theyshall walk andnot faint" (Isa.40:31, NKJV).

Their greatfortune as

most difficult circumstances. Rather,they should keep on putting theirtrust in God, fervently praying toHim so as to renew their strengthan d rekindle their hope: "But thosewho wait on the LORD Shall renewtheir strength; They shall mount upwith wings like eagles, They shall

heirs of God'spromises (Gal. 3:29) is more thanenough to rekindle their hope amidhopelessness. An d so, during thesedark and difficult times in thisincreasingly dangerous world, theyshould choose hope over doubt,discord, an d despair-and turn toGod: "Why am I so sad? Why am I so

Lead me Heavenward, 0 LurdForsake me not, 0 Lord, an d lead me heavenward,For Thou art my fortress an d Thou art my guide;Be merciful, 0 Lord, and heal my weary soul,Strengthen an d deliver me from evil and trouble.The God of Jesus Christ is my refuge,I fear no t though the mountains move;I'll praise Thee, 0 God, till the end of the earth,Foreve> Thou art my God until death. AReward unto me the joy of salvation, IIAs I acknowledge my sins an d transgressions ;Redeem my soul from eternal perdition,To -T-hee, I make this earnest supplication.I'll take delight to Thy will,My covenant with Thee I'll gladly fulfill;After all this earthly sojourn, I pray-A faithful rendezvous with God

As He leads me heavenward.

Evangeline B. FuentesBuiacan., Philipp;n.e"

22 FEBRUARY 2013 . GOD'S MESSAGE

troubled? I will pu t my hope in God,and once again I will praise him, mysavior and my God" (Ps. 42:11, rEV).

They should always rememberthat hoping in God's eternal promiseswill help them dispel the miseryan d desolation around them. Thusthey march into the future unbowed,unwavering-not fearing the days tocome, even if many evils lurk in theshadows- and continuing to holdfirmly to their hope . They shoulddraw inspiration from the words ofApostle Paul who said: "We have thishope as an anchor for our lives "(Heb. 6:19, Ibid.). 8

Page 25 of 44


25/44

,CHURCH REPORTS~ i f i f ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ a . e a r ~ ~ ' \ ~ l ~ _ A ~ T 6 I D N D _

AUSTRALIA - OCEANIA CANTERBURY-A blood donation drive washeld on December 22, 2012 at Bondi Beach,Bondi New South Wa les. The activity was spear-headed by the Christian family organi zations incooperation with the Austral ian Red Cross bloodserv ice of Sydney as part of the " Iglesia Ni CristoGiving" program. The amount of blood collected was enough to save 30 lives . (E. Maiiebog)

GEM (top) and musicalperformance (above) in Liverpool. LIVERPOOL-Local congregations with in theSydney metro spearheaded a grand evange lica l mission (G EM ) last December 2. Brethrenprepared for this occasion through seminars,devotional prayers,and vis itat ions. Afterthe GEM , musical pe r-formances from theyouth uf the iOLdi LUII -gregat ion enterta inedboth the guests and thebrethren. On the same

day, Brother Ranniel C. Serreno, district minister,officiated at a GEM in Cab ramatta High SchoolHall. The venue was f illed wi th guests who ea-gerly listened to the preaching of Gods wo rd s.After the GEM many guests decided to be reg is-te red as Bible stude nts . (K. Gutierrez)

NEW ZEALAND-The brethren invited andbrought their friends w ith them to attend aneva ngel ical mission at the Peppers Clear Water Hotel on January 12, 2013. Brother Buenve n Baitan, res ident minister, preached on theoccasion . Aside from the study of the gospel,a video presentation about the recent activi ties of the Ch urch was shown. To know moreabout the doctrines upheld by the Iglesia NiCristo the guests were given cop ies of the Pa-sugo: God's Message magazine. (R. Flor andR. Arizala Jr.)

Evallgelical mission in New Zealand.

Blood donation drive in Canterbury.

CHINANEW TERRITORIES-Brethren active ly

participated in a se ri es of missionary activit iesin the month of October last yea r. In themid autumn public holiday in Hongkongon October 1,256 guests attended the GEM

held in place of wo rsh ip. On October 21 ,a baptism was held in the Fok Fu Lam pool.Th irty new converts received baptism from thelocal congregat ions of Kowloon, Hong KongWest, and Hongkong East. On October 23,another evangel ica l mission was held. A tota lof 306 guests attended the eve nt officiated byBrother Cristiquio Calma, resident minister. (N.Embudo )

FEBRUARY 2013 GOD'S MESSAGE 23

Page 26 of 44


26/44

PHILIPPINE DISTRICTS MASBATE-The district conducted two grand evangelica l missions(GEM) in two separate venues onNovember 16, 2012 wherein atotal of 1,469 visitors attended. Inthe northern area, the GEM washeld at the M ilagros Municipal

Plaza in wh ich Brother Isaias A. Hipolito, district minister, and Brother Allan King Mercado,the Light of Salvation overseer preached God'swords. In the southern area, the event was heldat the house of worship of Cawayan and was officiated by Brother Ruben San Esteban, assistantdistrict minister. Meanwhi le on November 2,tryouts for the 2013 Unity Games were held atfour separate locations namely, Magallanes Col iseum, Masbate Grandstand, Cultural and SportsCenter of Masbate, and the National Comprehensive High School Auditorium. (A. Colambot) MOUNTAIN PROVINCE-Last November2 the district held a sports activity in Lepanto,Mankayan Benguet in preparation for the 2013Unity Games. The district also held a tree-planting activity. Members of the Society of Communi cators and Networkers International (SCAN)led by Brother Bernard P. Gonzales, district minister, trooped to Barangay Tabio to plant 1,000pine tree seed lings. (E. Guya)

24 FEBRUARY 2013 ' GOD'S MESSAGE

ABRA-About 452 new Church officers tooktheir oath on December 1, during the specialworship serv ices held at the houses of wo rship ofBangued and Dolores. Brother Ramir Q. Paba-late Sr., district minister, and Brother EbenezerLowe, assistant district minister, preached God'swords on those occassions. (E. Graycochea) ISABELA SOUTHOn October 29, brethren from all over thedistrict convened at theState University Amphitheater in Echague,Isabela along w ith their1,050 vis itors. In thisGEM, the vis itors who

attended the gathering were taught about the importance of the IgleSia Ni Cristo in serving Godand in atta ining salvation. Meanwhile, 1,050new Church officers took their oath on November 17, at the Santiago City house of worship.This gathering was officiated by Brother Mathusalem V. Pareja. A week before th is, Brother Ar-nel T. Verceles, district minister, led the brethrenin the tryouts and play-offs for the 2013 UnityGames. Players from different local congregations participated in the sports activity at theRizal Community Center in Santiago City. (A.Francisco)

Sports activity in Isabela South.

Page 27 of 44


27/44

PAMPANGA-On November 30, BrotherManuel S. Soriano Jr., district minister, officiatedthe spec ial gathering of Church officers held atthe house of worship of San Fernando Congregation . During the occasion a total of 1,400 newchurch officers took their oath. In his homily,Brother Soriano emphasized the importance ofedifying the Church and the value of having aChurch office. (R. Carlos) BATANGAS CITY-Brethren in the districtparticipated in an activity they dubbed as "Musi-kasig/ahan" on December 2 at the Batangas CityConvention Center. Local congregations, choralgroups, and solo performers participated in thesaid event. Brother Benjamin T. delos Reyes,d istrict minister, encouraged the brethren to always participate in all Church activities and to beunited with the Church Admin istration. (F. Fajuta-gana) DAVAO ORIENTAL-About 2,500 Church officers attended the specia l gatheri ng held on November 23 at the house of worship of Madangin Mati City. Officiating the event, Brother Mathusa lem v. Pareja emphasized in his homily, theimportance of remaining firm and steadfast in thecall ing in order to be saved on the Second Adventof Christ. (5. Vista) NEGROS DEL NORTE-The brethren fromvarious local congregations participated in aclean-up drive in the cities of Can laon, Sagay,Guihulngan, Escalante, and San Carlos on November 29, 2012. Brother Eleazar C. Palapar,district minister, led the brethren who broughtwith their brooms, sacks, shovels, and dust pansand went to the streetsto show their concernfor the environment.Through the activityth e brethren h,,[,prl toremind the residents ofNegros about the valueof keeping the environment clean. (M. Acuzar)

Oath-taking ofnew Church officers (above) baptism(top right); and some venues ofGEMs (right)in Benguet. BENGUET-For its 56th anniversarythe district held a ser ies of propagationactivities. On November 23, a total of2,427 new missionary officers tooktheir oath during the special gatheringthat was held at the house of worshipof La Trinidad. The following day, a tota lof 154 new converts were baptized inthe same venue. On November 26, GEMs wereheld at four selected ve nu es namely PFVR CloseGym, Lualhati Covered Court, Kias CoveredCourt, and Benguet State University-y ield ing atotal of 1,5 00 guests . (c. Layao) METRO MANILA SOUTH-On December31, hours before the coming yea r, the family ofministers and evange lical workers held a specialgathering in the local congregation of Guadalupe. Brother Israel U. Flores, district minister,emphasized in his homily the va lue of beingworkers in God's field, that one should havededication and perseverance in fulfi lling theholy task from God. Moreover, Brother Floresimplored the family of ministers and evangel ica lworkers to love the Church and the ministry. During this occasion, the ministers and evange lica l

workers who succeeded in the work of propagation were recognized by being given certificatesof appreciation. (R. Arizala Jr. ) LAGUNA-To commemorate the 50th founding anniversary of Buk/ad, the district launched"Himig Buk/od" on November 30, at the Univers ity of the Philippines' Umali Hall in LosBanos. Brethren from the different local congre gations participated in the activity by showingtheir talents in music. Brother Mayonel D. Taal,district minister, led the brethren in the said occasion. The brethren showcased their talent inmusic and singing and even the ministers' wivesperformed. Overall, the activity became an inspiration to many to be firm and steadfast inserv ing God . (R. Arizala Jr.)

Special gathering ofministers and evangelical workers withtheir family in Metro Manila South.

FEBRUARY 2013 . GOD'S MESSAGE 25

Page 28 of 44


28/44

* ,ct A O ) ~ ~ ~ tJA'ct, A ~ o ) d 5 S I 1 > ~ J a J l I i H L d S \ - \ T f ~ ' { r p O ) a - ~ i J : m B J 3 ud::-5 t U*9

~ l )y>I I ) i f l 'ZA '7 : r?9 -p g L l . J ~ : ; t

Translated byLIANE ELIZABETH M. FACTOR

and SHUTA T. UCHIYAMA

, ; } & ~ e l : A r , , ' O ) ~ ~ ~ 1 . J o A ~ e I : , A ~ O ) S S I ~ J j 5 ] r n H < : c 1 S ~ \ T f 1 : 1 f P~ C : I ; : j ; f o J 1 . { t I D G a J l G J : " 3 C : G * 9 - ~ { t 1 . J ' I t T , ~ , ' i 5 G i f j . ,,,,,,, * n t . : ~ , * ~ ~ G * ( \ I ) * 9 0

~ ~ ~ . ~ ~ ~ c : , m ~ * ~ ~ * ; } & ~ A ~ O ) ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ B W ~ ~ ~T ~ * G t ' : o t O ) E E ~ l H e I : , A ! @ j O ) ~ f J J O ) ~ ~ I ~ ~ ~ , t o ) < : c : ~ e l : t ! ! W ~ i l l O ) A . q ~ ~ n l t - E l m ~ ~ 9 0 * ; } & f t \ ] t ~ f 1 : ~ ' \ ' > ~ t g t t L ~ , * t d ~ : t t ~ e I :m { ~ I < : * ~ ~ ~ l 6 * n T c I S ~ t G T ~ ~ ' \ ' > t ~ ~ J I I 1 m G e I : : ' 3 C : 9 ~ J b . ~ \ ~i f j . O ) l i f f ~ ~ < : = t t ~ - : : > T ~ \*90

% ~ < : - : i ~ \ T ~ ~ ~ < : i i I : ~ 9 ~ < : C : ... J..bil l


29/44

'


30/44

" 1.A."5 I ) ~ J : o ~ , d 5 t d : t c ( J ) ~ , ~ 1 J \ d 5 t d : t d l :* c 9 Y c t 3 6 n ~ C : c j i f p J 1 J ' o t c t c , d 5 f d : t c ( J ) ~ , ~~ ~ nL .z- (J) "9 L (J) J][ ,


31/44

AN INVITATION FROM our neighborfor a Bible study in 1994 was the start ofit all. Thinking then that the doctrinesof the Iglesia Ni Cristo and the Catholic Churchwere similar, my family and I allowed Biblestudies to be held at our home. Brother ErdyMangaron introduced us to Brother ElmerMiranda, an evangelical worker. Listeningto one lesson after the other, I noticed thatthe teachings of the Iglesia Ni Cristo are all

read from the Bible. The teachings of theCatholic Church are far different. This mademe curious, more so when I heard the biblicalteaching that our Lord Jesus Christ is man.My husband, Cesar, could not accept thisteaching and so he stopped attending andtried to persuade me and our children to dothe same. But 1wanted to tind out more aboutthe Iglesia Ni Cristo, so I accepted an invitationto attend the worship service.

FE BRUARY 2 013 . GOD'S ME SSAGE 29

Page 32 of 44


32/44

"We thank God so muchfor calling us to the true Church

and it is our fervent prayer that ourloved ones and friends

be enlightened also to becomemembers ofthe true Church,"

Over the course of the Bible studies,I learned more truths that made medecide to leave the Catholic faith. Imageworship, the belief about the Trinity,the deity of Christ, to name a few areall unbiblical teachings. I made up my

mind to join the Church bu t Iwanted my husband and mychildren to enter the Churchwith me. Brothers Miranda andMangaron advised me to prayto God for help.

My relationship with myhusband became strained be-cause he ignored me an d re-fused to talk to me when helearned that I had decided toenter the Church. But in spiteof this, I continuously prayedhard for him to be enlightened.

My heart was filled withgladness when, one day, my husbandarrived home telling me that he intendedto continue listening to the doctrines ofthe Iglesia Ni Cristo. I didn't know thenthat all that time, he was reviewing theverses taught by Brother Miranda. My

children soon followed. Eventually,my husband decided to remove all thegraven images and statues in our house.

On July 18, 1995, my husband an dI were baptized and a few years later,we accepted the office of deacon an ddeaconess. By God's grace, all ou rchildren are officers of the Church, savefor Cesar Jr. wh o is an active member:my two daughters, Cristina andClarissa, are finance officers; Czarinaand Crizele Joyce are PNK (children'Sworship service) officers, and our sonsCarelle and Christopher hold duties inthe local congregation of Va lenzuela,Metro Manila North, Philippines. Wethank God so much for calling us to thetrue Church and i t is ou r fervent prayerthat ou r loved ones and friends beenlightened also to become members ofthe true Church. 0

Io....- F ~ L ~ PIN 0 SEC T IONPage 33 of 44


33/44

_______PANGULONG TUDLING

Lunas sa kawalang-pag-asaAG MARAMI SA nakikita at nababasa ng mga taoukol sa mga kaganapan sa daigdig ngayon ay naglalarawan sa isang mundong patuloy sa pagbulusoktungo sa marami pang mga karahasan, mga sakunang pangkapaligiran, papalubhang kasamaan at kriminalidad-nanagdudulot ng takot, kapighatian, at kawalang-pag-asa.

Ang mabilis na pagbagsak ng ekonomiya ang lalongnagpapalubha sa mga pangyayari sa halos lahat ng panig ngdaigdig at nagtutulak sa iba na bumaling sa mga desperadonggawain. Ang mga insidente ng pagpapatiwakal ay tumataashabang ang mga pamahalaan ay patuloy na nagbabawas sakanilangmga gugulin, ang mga sahod ay bumababa,ang ilangmga serbisyong pampubliko ay itinitigil, at libu-libong mgatrabahador ang tinatanggal bilang bahagi ng malawakangpagtitipid sa gugulin- na nag-aatang sa milyun-milyong taong pasaning higit sa kanilang makakayang batahin.

Araw-araw ay ibinabalita sa mga pahayagan ang ukolsa mga kilos-protesta bunsod ng galit at lumulubhang kawaIan ng pag-asa. Ang mga mamamayan ay humihingi ng pagbabago alang-alang sa kapakanan ng nakararami- ang ilangbilyon 0 mahigit sa ikatlong bahagi ng populasyon ng daigdig ay kinukulang sa mga pangunahing pangangailanganpara mabuhay, samantalang maituturing na maliit na bilanglamang ang nabubuhay sa kasaganaan at may kontrol sa nasabing mga yaman. Sa gitna ng malaking hamong kinakaharap ng lipunan sa kasalukuyan, marami ang pinaghaharianng kasiphayuan at kawalang-pag-asa-isang damdamin atkalagayang napakahirap na mapagtagumpayan at malampasan, laiD na kung walang ibang makatutulong.

Gayunpaman, may tulong na maaaring matamo angtao . Nalalaman ng Diyos na Makapangyarihan sa lahatang nararamdaman ng tao, yayamang Siya ang lumikha atlumalang hindi lamang ng tao kundi ng buong sansinukob.Sapamamagitan ng Kaniyang Anak, ang Panginoong Jesucristo,itinuturo Niya sa tao ang pangunahing pangangailanganng buhay, na: "Huwag kayong mabalisa tungkol sa inyongkakanin, iinumin at daramtin. Pagkat ang mga bagay na itoang kinahuhumalingan ng mga Hentil. Alam ng inyong Amasa langit na kailangan ninyo ang lahat ng ito. Datapuwathanapin muna ninyo ang kanyang kaharian at ang kanyangkatuwiran, at ang mga bagay na ito'y idaragdag sa inyo"(Mat. 6:31-33, New Filipino Version, sa amin ang pagdiriin).Madalas sabihin ng mga tao na, "Hindi mabuti angmabalisa." Ngunit isang katotohanan na ang marami aylubhang nababalisa: ukol sa katatagan ng kanilang hanapbuhay, seguridad ng kanilang mga anak, pambayad sa up a

at iba pang bayarin, pagkain sa mesa, at iba pa. Tahasangipinakita ng Tagapagligtas na walang saysay ang ganitongpag-aalala at damdamin ng mga "pagano" nang Kaniyangsabihing: "Alam ng inyong Ama sa langit na kailangan ninyoang lahat ng ito ... at ang mga bagay na ito'y idaragdag sainyo." Ibibigay ng Diyos ang mga ito-kaya naman hindisila dapat pang pag-ukulan ng pagkabalisa at matindingpag-aalala- kung hahanapin muna ang Kaniyang kaharianat ang Kaniyang katuwiran. Bukod dito, ang pagkabalisa aynagdudulot ng stress. Ang malabis na pa g-aalala ay maaaringmagdulot ng depresyon at matinding kalungkutan.

Marapat, kung gayon, sa tao na iayos ang kaniyangprayoridad sa buhay. Ang utos ng Biblia na "hanapin muna"ay nangangahulugang may pangunahing dapat pag-ukulanng pansin ng tao. Walang ibang dapat makaagaw rito. Hindiang pagkain. Hindi ang kasuotan 0 ang inumin. Bagkus,kalakip ang matiyagang pagsusumikap at pagpupumilit,dapat magsakit ang tao na matamo ang kaharian ng Diyosat ang Kaniyang katuwiran. Ang kaniyang isip at atensiyonsa pagtatamo ng mga ito ay hindi dapat magambala ng iba.Ang pagkain at kasuotan ay maituturing na maliit na bagaylamang kung ihahambing sa mga ito.

Ang "kaharian" na dapat unahing hanapin ng taoay ibinigay sa "kawan", gaya ng ipinahayag mismo ngPanginoong Jesucristo : "Huwag kayong matakot, muntingkawan, sapagkat nalulugod ang inyong Ama na ibigay sainyo ang kanyang kaharian" (Luc. 12:32, Ibid.) .

Ang mga taong iniligtas ng Diyos mula sa kadilimanng sanlibutang ito ay inilipat sa "kaharian ng Anak" kungsaan natamo nila ang katubusan at ang kapatawaranng kasalanan sa pamamagitan ng nabuhos na dugo ngPanginoong Jesucristo (Col. 1:12-14, Ibid.). Ang "kawan" natinubos 0 binili ni Jesus ng Kaniyang dugo ay ang Iglesia NiCristo (Gawa 20:28, Lamsa Translation).Kailangan ng lahat ng tao, kung gayon, ang Iglesia NiCristo. Ang "kaharian ng Anak" ay hindi marapat na isantabing tao sa kaniyang mga priyoridad sa buhay. Tandaan angsinabi ni Jesus na "hanapin muna."

Kapag nahanap na niya ang "kaharian" at nagingkaanib na siya sa Iglesia Ni Cristo, hindi doon nagwawakasang pananagutan ng tao. Kailangan din niyang hanapin ang"katuwiran" ng Diyos. Ipinaliwanag ni Apostol Pablo kungalin ang katuwirang ito: "Sapagka't hindi ko ikinahihiyaang evangelio; sapagkat siyang kapangyarihan ng Diossa ikaliligtas ng bawa't sumasampalataya; una sa Judio,at gayon din sa Griego. Sapagka't dito ang katuwiran ng

-FILIPINO SECTION- FEBRUARY 2013 GOD'S MESSAGE 31

Page 34 of 44


34/44

Dios ay nahahayag mula sa pananampalataya hanggang sapananampalataya: gaya ng nasusulat, Nguni't ang ganap aymabubuhay sa pamamagitan ng pananampala taya" (Rom.1:16-17, sa amin ang pagdiriin).

Ang "katuwiran" ng Diyos ay ang ebanghelyo. Itoang makapangyarihang paraan ng Diyos upang anglahat ng sumasampalataya rito ay madala sa kaligtasan atmakabahagi sa Kaniyang makalangit na kaharian. Subalitang pananampalataya sa ebanghelyo ay dapat lakipan nggawa 0 pagsunod (Sant. 2:14, 17, 19, 24, Ibid .). Kung hindi,ang gayong pananampalataya ay walang kabuluhan, patayat walang ibubungang kaligtasan.

Binigyang-diin ni Apostol Pablo ang kahalagahan ngpagsunod ng tao sa katuwiran ng Diyos 0 sa ebanghelyo nangkaniyang ipahayag na: "Ngayon, mga kapatid, ipinaalaalako sa inyo ang ebanghelyong ipinangaral ko sa inyo, nainyong tinanggap at pinananatilihan hanggang ngayon.Sa pamamagitan nito'y ligtas kayo kung matatag kayongnananatili sa salitang ipinangaral ko sa inyo, maliban na langkung sumampalataya kayo nang walang kabuluhan" (I Cor.15:1-2, NPV) .

Ang ebanghelyong ipinangaral sa tao ay dapat tanggapin,sampalatayanan, panghawakan 0 matatag na panatilihanupang lubos na pakinabangan ang pangako ng Diyos na"ang mga bagay na ito'y idaragdag sa inyo." Maliban nalamang kung ang tao ay hindi tunay na sumampalat aya rito.

Itinakda ng Diyos ang saligan sa pagtatamong Kaniyangpangakong materyal at espirituwal na mga pagpapala saisang napakapayak na paraan: ang pagsunod sa Kaniya.Angsuliranin, maraming mga tao ang nahihirapang makasunodsa gitna ng isang mundong mapanukso at may maJakasna panghikayat. Kaya naman sinabi ni Apostol Pablo nanapakahirap maging isang Cristiano sa mga panahong ito:"Dapat mo ring malaman ito, Timoteo, na sa mg a hulingaraw ay magiging napakahirap na maging isang Cristiano.Sapagkat ang iibigin lamang ng mga tao ay ang kanilangsarili at ang kanilang salapi; magiging mayayabang silaat palalo, na tinutuya ang Diyos, masuwayin sa kanilangmga magulang at walang utang na loob sa kanila, at tunayna masasama. Magiging matitigas ang kanilang ulo, atsa anumang paraan ay hindi magbibigay-daan sa iba;magiging mapagsinungaling sila at: mapaghanap ng guloat hindi nababahala sa paggawa ng imoralidad. Magigingmagagaspang ang kanilang ugali at malulupit, at tutuyainnila ang mga nagsisikap na maging mabuti. Pagtataksilannila ang kanilang mga kaibigan; magiging mainitin angkanilang mga ulo, puspos ng kayabangan, at mas magigingmaibigin sa kasayahan kaysa sa pagsamba sa Diyos.P u p u n t a silo. s o. s i rnbahan, 00, 6ubal i t h indi ncunan nilatotoong paniniwalaan ang anumang naririnig nila. Huwagkang pahihimok sa mga taong tulad nila" (II Tim. 3:1-5,Living Bible, isinalin mula sa Ingles).32 FEBRUARY 2013 GOD'S MESSAGE

Gaano katotoo ang mga ito sa ating panahon? Ayon saisang ulat na inilabas noong Oktubre 9;2012 ng Pew ResearchCenter 's Forum on Religion and Public Life, higit na maramingmga tao ngayon ang maituturing na ateo, agnostiko, 0walang kinaaanibang relihiyon kaysa alinmang panahonnoong una. Sa katunayan, ikatlong bahagi ng mga may edad30 pababa ang walang kinabibilangang relihiyon (32 %).

Idagdag pa rita ang mga taong makasarili 0 mga maibiginsa salapi, na sa salita ng mga apostol ay "ang ibibigin lamang.. . ay ang kanilang sarili at ang kanilang salapi." Nariyandin ang mga taong liko ang moral at kondukta, mayayabang,at mas maibigin sa kalayawan kaysa maibigin sa Diyos.Ang bilang ng mga relihiyon, iglesia, at mga samahangnagkukunwang relihiyoso ay nakapanlilinlang at hindimapanghahawakan, sapagkat gaya ng sinabi ni ApostolPablo, "Pupunta sila sa simbahan, 00, subalit hindi namannila totoong paniniwalaan ang anumang naririnig nila."

Kaya hindi tayo nag-aalinlangan na itinakda ng Diyosna ang lahat ng masasama ay sama-samang lilipulin,kasama ng daigdig na ito at ng mga bagay rito, sa Araw ngPaghuhukom (II Ped. 3:7, 10). Sa araw na yaon, maging angmga makapangyarihan at malalakas na tao ay buong paitna tatangis. At ang mga taong nahumaling sa pagtatamong "pilak at ginto" 0 salapi sa mundong ito ay masaklapna matutuklasan na ang kanilang kayamanan ay hindimakapagliligtas sa kanila sa araw ng poot ng Panginoon(Zef. 1:14-15, 17-18).

Ito ang lalong nagpapakita ng ibayong kaha lagahan ngpagiging tapat na kaanib sa Iglesia Ni Cristo. Una sa lahat,ang mga kaanib ang natubos ng dugo ni Jesus, at dahildito'y maliligtas sila sa Araw ng Paghuhukom. Pangalawa,maging sa buhay na ito, sila ay hinihikayat na hilingin saDiyos sa pamamagitan ng daing na may pagpapasalamatang lahat nilang pangangailangan, yayamang ang pangakoay: "Huwag kayong mabalisa tungkol sa anumang bagay. Sahalip ay hingin ninyo sa Diyos ang lahat ng inyong kailangansa pamamagitan ng panalanging may pasasalamat ... Atbuhat sa kayamanan niyang hindi mauubos, ibibigay niyaang lahat ng inyong kailangan sa pamamagitan ni CristoJesus" (Fil. 4:6, 19, Magandang BaIita).

Nangako ang Diyos na ibibigay Niya nang sagana anglahat ng kanilang kailangan mula sa Kaniyang kayamanan.Ang mga kabalisahan ng tao ukol sa kaniyang mgamateryal na pangangailangan at ang kaniyang pang-arawaraw na alalahanin ay maiibsan. Hindi niya dapat hayaanang kaniyang sarili na mapagtagumpayan at maigupo ngkawalang-pag-asa at kawalang-magagawa. Mayroong lunasna itinuturo ang Biblia ukol dito. Dapat simulan ng tao anghakbang tungo i ~ a . n g p o ~ i t i b n g "dhika in; hCUldpln CUl.gkaharian ng Diyos 0 ang Iglesia Ni Cristo. At sa loob nito, anglubos na pagsunod sa katuwiran ng Diyos 0 sa ebanghelyoSundan sa pahina 35

Page 35 of 44


35/44

Sinulat ni LLOYD I. CASTRO

SA KANILANGMGA pagtuturo,laging nagpapa-yo ang Pamamahala ng

Iglesia Ni Cristo sa bawatkaanib na huwag bitiwan

kung nakararanas man ng mgapagsubok 0 suliranin, manapa'y

ipagpatuloy, ang kasiglahan sapaglilingkod sa Diyos. Hinihikayat nila

ang lahat na panatilihin ang dedikasyonsa pagtupad ng tungkulin sa Diyos,

pangunahin na ang pagdalo sa pagsarnba,lalo na ngayong nalalapit ang araw ng

kaligtasan (Heb. 10:25).Sapagkat ipinagpauna ng Biblia na habang

papalapit ang dakilang araw na iyon ay lalongtitindi ang mga kahirapan at kasamaan sa daigdig.

Ayaw ng Pamamahala na ang sinumang kaanib saIglesia ay manghina sa pananampalataya at panawan ngpag-asa sa gitna ng maaari pa niyang pagdaanang tiisin at

kapighatian.Walang dahilan para ang hinirang ng Diyos ay hindi

magpatuloy sa mga paglilingkod sa Kaniya sapagkat sa dulo

-FILIPINO SECTION- FEBRUARY 2013 ' GOD'S MESSAGE 33

Page 36 of 44


36/44

noon ay tiyak na may maaasahan:"Nagpapatuloy nga ako tungo sahangganan upang kamtan anggantimpala ng pagkatawag sa akin ngDiyos sa pamamagitan ni Cristo Jesus,ang buhay na hahantong sa langit"(Filip. 3:14, Magandang Balita Biblia).

mahalaga, ang pagkakilala kay CristoJesus na aking Panginoon. Ang lahatng bagay ay ipinalagay kong walangkabuluhan makamtan ko lamang siCristo." (Filip. 3:7-8, MB)

Maliwanag sa mga lingkodng Diyos kung alin ang lalongmahalaga- ang pagkakilala kayCristo 0 ang pagka-Iglesia Ni Cristo.Kaya hindi sila nawawalan ng pag-asaanuman ang kanilang tiisin.Ang kahulugan ng tiisin

Ang pagtawag ng Diyo;' sapamamagitan ng Kaniyang Anak ayang pagbibigay sa atin ng karapatansa paglilingkod sa Diyos sa loob ngtunay na Iglesia. Walang kasinghalagaang gantimpalang nakalaan samga tumugon sa tawag na i t o -ang buhay na walang hanggan salangit. Ang makatatanggap nita ayang magpapatuloy sa hangganan,alalaong baga'y masiglang Iglesia NiCristo hanggang kamatayan 0 Arawng Paghuhukom.

Ang pagiging masikap sapaglilingkad sa Divas ang ikatitibav

Para sa mg a Iglesia Ni Cristo, angpagtitiis ng mga suliranin, kahirapan,at pag-uusig huwag lamang mawalaysa Iglesia ay ikatitiyak na aariinsilang karapat-dapat sa kaharian ngDiyos: "Ipinagmamalaki namin kayosa lahat ng kaanib sa iglesya ng Diyosdahil sa inyong pananampalataya atpagtitiis, sa kabila ng mga pag-uusigat mga kahirapang dinaranas ninyo.

Ito ang pinakahahangad ngPamamahala na inilagay ng Diyossa lahat ng kapatid sa Iglesia. Alamnilang napakaraming suliraning dapat

ng pag-asa ng mga hinirangsa maluwalhating buhaV,

harapin, kaya hinihikayat nila ang bawat isa na magtiis alangalang sa paglilingkod sapagkat may nakalaang gantimpalasa mg a nakapagtiis:

"Sa kabilang dako, ang langit ang tunay nating bayan.Mula roo'y hinihintay nating may pananabikang PanginoongJesu-Cristo, ang ating Tagapagligtas. Pagdating ng araw nayaon, babaguhin niya ang ating katawang-Iupa at gagawing .maluwalhati, tulad ng kanyang katawan, sa pamamagitanng kapangyarihang ginarnit niya sa pagpapasuko sa lahat ngbagay." (Filip. 3:20-21, Ibid.)

Sa muling pagparito ni Cristo, gagawing maluwalhatiang katawan ng mg a nagpatuloy sa pagka-Iglesia Ni Cristo,angkop sa bayang pagdadalhan sa kanila, ang BayangBanal, kung saan maluwalhati ang buhay. Doon ay walanang gutom, uhaw, hirap, sakit, at kamatayan (Apoc. 7:13-17; 21:1-4).

Kung may mga taong isinasakripisyo ang paglilingkodsa Diyos matamo lamang ang mga bagay na panlupa, angmga tunay na Cristiano ay hindi gayon. An g mg a itinuturingng sanlibutan na pakinabang, tulad ng kayamanangmateryal, karunungang panlupa, kapangyarihan,katanyagan, ay walang kabuluhan kung ihahambing sapagkakilala kay Cristo 0 pagka-Iglesia Ni Cristo:

"Ngunit dahil kay Cristo, ang mga bagay na maaari kongibilang na pakinabang ay inari kong kalugihan. 00, inarikong kalugihan ang lahat ng bagay bilang kapalit ng lalong

Ito ang katunayan ng makatarunganghatol ng Diyos: na kayo'y ariing karapat-dapat sa kanyangkaharian na siyang dahilan ng inyong pagtitiis . . . Kayonamang mga nagtitiis ay aaliwin niyang kasama naminpagbabalik ng Panginoong Jesus mula sa langit, kasamaang makapangyarihan niyang mga anghel." (II Tes. 1:4-5,7, Ibid.)

Ang mga nagtitiis ay aaliwin sa pagbabalik ng atingPanginoong Jesus. Tatanggapin nila ang gantimpala salangit. Kaya, kahit ano pang kahirapan ang maranasan nilasa buhay na ito ay hindi sila uurong at hindi nila ipagpapalitang kanilang pagka-Iglesia Ni Cristo sa mga bagay na panlupalamang. Ayaw nilang sapitin ito:

"Kapahamakan ang kahihinatnan nila sapagkat angdinidiyos nila ay ang hilig ng kanilang katawan. Ikinararangalnila ang mga bagay na dapat sana nilang ikahiya at angpinag-uukulan lang nila ng pansin ay ang mga bagay napanlupa." (Filip. 3:19, Ibid.)

Kaya laging panawagan ng Pamamahala sa mgakapatid na upang hindi mapahamak sa Paghuhukom ayhuwag tutularan ang mga taong ang ipinagpapauna ayang mga bagay na panlupa. Abala man ang isang Iglesia NiCristo sa mga bagay na may kinalaman sa pang-araw-arawna pamumuhay, gayunma'y priyoridad pa rin niya angmg a gawaing magpapatibay sa kaniyang pagiging kaanib,tulad ng pagtupad ng tungkulin, walang palyang pagdalosa pagsamba, at paglahok sa mga aktibidad ng Iglesia.

34 FEBRUARY 2013 GOD'S MESSAGE -FILIPINO SECTION-

Page 37 of 44


37/44

Ang ikatitibay sa pag-asaNapakalaki ng kinalaman ng ibayong pagsisikap sapaglilingkod sa pag-asa sa buhay sa langit: "Nais namingipakita ng bawat isa sa inyo ang ganoong pagsisikaphanggang wakas, para maging tiyak ang inyong pag-asa.Hindi narnin nais na kayo'y maging tarnad, kundi tularanninyo ang mga taong nanarnpalataya at nagtiis kayanagmana ng ipinangako sa kanila ng Dios." (Heb. 6:11-12,New Pilipino Version)

Ang pagiging masikap sa paglilingkod sa Diyos angikatitibay ng pag-asa ng mga hinirang sa maluwalhatingbuhay. Ang masikap ay hindi napahahadlang at hindinahuhulog sa katarnaran. Hindi siya papayag na wala siyangbahagi sa mga aktibidad na pangkabanalan. Lagi siyangitinutulak ng kaniyang matibay na pag-asa sa pakikiisa salahat ng gawain sa Iglesia, kasarna na ang mga proyektong kanilang kapisanang pansambahayan-Buklod man siya(may-asawa), KADIWA 0 Binhi (binata't dalaga).

Hindi bibitiw sa kasiglahan sa paglilingkod ang hinirangng Diyos, sa gitna man ng mga suliranin, dahil maaasahanniyang ang Diyos ang magbibigay-Iunas sa mga ito:"Sa aking paligid, nang ako'y lumingon, Wala ni isa manakong makatulong; Wala kahit isa na magsasanggalang,Ni magmalasakit na kahit sinuman. Ako ay humibik, kayYahweh dumaing, Sa Tagapagligtas, ako'y dumalangin;Pagkat siya lamang ang lunas sa akin." (Awit 142:4-5, MB)

Batid ng lingkod ng Diyos na malalapitan niya angkapuwa para tumulong at maaaring taos ito sa kanilang puso,ngunit palibhasa'y taong tulad niyang may pangangailangandin, kaya hindi rin ganap na malulunasan ng kaniyangkapwa ang kaniyang hilahil. Ang Diyos ang kinikilala niyangtanging lunas sa lahat ng kaniyang hilahil.

Sa harap ng katotohanang ito, tuwina'y ipinaaaialang Parnarnahala sa mga kapatid na ang mahabagin atmakapangyarihang Diyos ang hingan nila ng tulong, ng pagiingat, at ng pagkinga. Kaya't dapat gawing bahagi ng buhaynila ang pananalangin sa Diyos yayarnang pinakikingganNiya ang daing n.g Kaniyang hinirang: "Dapat mapagkuroninyo at malamcu) Na mahal ni Yahweh akong kanyanghirang, Dinirinig niya sa pananawagan." (Awit 4:3, Ibid.)

An g kaanib sa Iglesia Ni Cristo na lubos nasumasampalatayang kabilang siya sa mga hinirangng Diyos sa panahong Cristiano ay kailanman hindimawawalan ng pag-asa (Col. 3:12, 15; 1:18; Roma 16:16,NPV). Mananatili siyang masigla sa paglilingkod atpagsamba sa Diyos. Sasamahan siya ng Diyos sa kaniyangbuhay, anuman ang mangyari. Naninindigan siyang satulong at awa ng Diyos ay matatapos niya an g kaniyangtakbuhin upang tanggapin ang putong ng buhay-anggantimpalang buhay na walang hanggan. 9

Lunas sa kawalang pag-asa .. . mula sa pahina 32ay matututunan, pati ang kahulugan at kahalagahan ngdisiplina at pagpaparusa ng Diyos (Heb. 12:5-10).

Maaaring nakasanayan na ng tao ang maraming mgapangako na hindi natutupad. Ngunit ito ay sa panig larnangng kaniyang kapuwa tao. Subalit sa panig ng Diyos, ay ibaang kaniyang mararanasan. Ang Kaniyang mga pangakoay pawang natutupad at matutupad. Sa hanggananng mapanganib na paglalakbay rito sa daigdig ng mgamasunurin at tapat na mga kaanib ng Iglesia Ni Cristo aynaghihintay ang "isang bagong langit at isang bagong lupa"kung saan "Papahirin [ng Diyosl ang kanilang mga luha.Wala nang kamatayan, dalamhati, pag-iyak at sakit .. "(Apoc. 21:1-4, Ibid.). Ang mga bagay na yaon ay lilipas namagpakailanman. ~-RICHARD J. RODAS

Pangulong Patnugot

"FILIPINO SECTION" FEBRUARY 2013 GOD'S MESSAGE 35

Page 38 of 44

7/30/2019 Pasugo Feb.2013

Pasugo Feb.2013 Vol.65 No.2 ''Anti-Dote for Despair'' - Copy

Documents

Transcript of Pasugo Feb.2013 Vol.65 No.2 ''Anti-Dote for Despair'' - Copy